“Opt for a book that has a variety of pregnancy-related topics with resources so you can refer to it along your journey,” explains Gina Charles, DO, a board-certified family medicine physician based in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. She also recommends seeking out books that are supported by evidence-based studies and written by credentialed experts in the field to ensure the information is accurate and up-to-date. It doesn’t matter if this is your first, second, or third pregnancy—there are books for a wide variety of needs. The best pregnancy book is reputable and fits your needs, whether you’d like something informational or more conversational. We carefully looked at reputable information, expert advice, value, and usefulness when reviewing products. “What to Expect When You’re Expecting” tops our list because it’s one book filled with all the information you need to know about pregnancy. Don’t be intimidated by the 600-plus-page book—you don’t need to read every single page. The book includes chapters on specific information such as pregnancy symptoms, pregnancy lifestyle, info for dads, carrying multiples, and week-by-week developmental information. There’s also guidance on how to manage pregnancy complications and cope with pregnancy loss. Price at time of publication: $18 Price at time of publication: $15 Readers appreciate the calm and informative tone of this book. Price at time of publication: $18 Price at time of publication: $22 Price at time of publication: $16 The combination results in a useful book that gives trimester-by-trimester overviews, pregnancy symptoms and relief, important decisions to consider, registry tips, exercises, and so much more. Price at time of publication: $18 Price at time of publication: $23 Price at time of publication: $15 The twin-specific info will help parents plan for the unexpected and accept the changes (and challenges) that two babies will bring. Price at time of publication: $18 Price at time of publication: $15 We love the book’s easy-to-understand diet breakdown, including what foods to eat each trimester and how to keep food safe. Plus, author Nicole M. Avena, PhD, has additional advice for those who plan to nurse, so you can use the book even after birth. Price at time of publication: $17 The book explains the benefits and risks of different types of childbirth, like home births, C-sections, and more. There are also several chapters on postpartum topics, including breastfeeding and contraception, to help you troubleshoot any issues you may have. Price at time of publication: $22 Price at time of publication: $17 Price at time of publication: $18
What to Look for in a Pregnancy Book
Reputable Information
Make sure that the book you are relying on bases its information on science, medical research, and reputable sources. While the book doesn’t need to be written by a doctor to be helpful, it is important to check out the author’s credentials to make sure they have expertise in the area. “[There is] currently a plethora of pregnancy books on the market,” Dr. Charles tells Verywell Family. “I typically recommend books that are supported by evidence-based studies and written by subject matter experts who are credentialed in the field.” It is important to note that a pregnancy book should not take the place of medical advice. Be sure to consult with your doctor before making significant lifestyle or health-related changes.
Tailored to Your Needs
Whether you’re an expectant twin mom, an LGBTQ+ parent-to-be, or experiencing pregnancy after a loss, there’s a pregnancy book out there to accompany you on your journey. There are also several types of books depending on what you’re looking for, from thorough, scientific guides like “Expecting Better” to options that provide lighthearted relief, like “Say No to Placenta Pics.” Choose a book that suits you and your lifestyle—you’ll be more likely to read it and absorb the information if you connect with the content.
Why Trust Verywell Family
Maya Polton is a former marketing manager and current freelance writer who covers food, home, and parenting. She’s also the mom of a 10-year-old son, 7-year-old son, and 3-year old daughter. Maya prepped for her first pregnancy by reading a few different books, but nothing could have prepared her for reality. Her oldest was born in a taxi cab, in the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel, on the way to the hospital! “For those who are interested in learning how Western and Eastern medicine can be employed to increase chances of fertility, I recommend ‘Making Babies’ by Dr. Jill Blakeway and Dr. Sami David,” Dr. Charles tells Verywell Family. “And for anyone who is looking for a fertility book that uses non-clinical language, Rebecca Fett’s ‘It Starts with the Egg’ does just that.” “Choosing the right book can be overwhelming, especially during these sensitive periods of life. I recommend Mayo Clinic’s ‘Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy’ by Myra Wick, MD,” says Dr. Charles. “This book provides detailed information about fertility, prenatal care, common pregnancy symptoms, stages of childbirth, and much more. It also has a 40-week tracker to document your progress along your entire pregnancy journey.” Dr. Charles does warn that there are some types of pregnancy books you may want to avoid. “The number one thing that I caution everyone [about] is searching the internet and relying on non-credible sites for answers,” she says. “I also caution [against] any books with absolute claims in their titles. For example, ‘Guarantee pregnancy in three months,’ or, ‘Everything you need to know.’”
